Air France is strengthening its position in the Caribbean tourism market with the launch of a new direct route connecting Paris-Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG) to Punta Cana International Airport (PUJ) in the Dominican Republic. Set to operate from January 13 to March 28, 2026, the new service is perfectly timed to coincide with the peak winter travel season, offering sun-seeking travelers in Europe an easy gateway to the tropical Caribbean.
Winter Getaways Made Easier: New Punta Cana Route Details
The Paris to Punta Cana flight will operate three times per week on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays. Outbound flights depart Paris at 2:25 PM and land in Punta Cana at 6:45 PM local time. The return service departs PUJ at 9:05 PM and arrives at CDG at 10:30 AM the next day. The route will be serviced by Boeing 777-300ER aircraft, known for their comfort and long-haul capability, with capacity for up to 369 passengers across Business, Premium Economy, and Economy classes.
This new offering positions Air France to better serve both leisure travelers and members of the Caribbean diaspora in Europe looking to return home. Punta Cana, famous for its all-inclusive beach resorts, crystal-clear waters, and adventure offerings, stands as one of the most visited destinations in the Caribbean.
Why Punta Cana Matters for Air France
Punta Cana continues to grow as a strategic hub for Caribbean tourism. Known for luxury accommodations, eco-tourism, and adventure sports like scuba diving and ziplining, it appeals to a diverse mix of travelers. The Dominican Republic’s tourism ministry has noted a resurgence in European visitation, making the launch of this new route a timely move.
According to David Collado, the Dominican Republic’s Minister of Tourism, “The new route from Paris to Punta Cana is an important milestone in reconnecting the French market with our Caribbean offerings.”
Air France’s Expanding Caribbean Network
This move builds on Air France’s commitment to expanding in the Caribbean. In addition to Punta Cana, the airline already services the following regional destinations:
- Havana, Cuba
- Cayenne, French Guiana
- Pointe-à-Pitre, Guadeloupe
- Fort-de-France, Martinique
- Saint Martin (Grand Case)
With the addition of Punta Cana, Air France now connects Paris to six Caribbean destinations, using a mix of wide-body Boeing 777s and Airbus A320s depending on the route.
Flight Schedule Summary:
- AF968 (CDG to PUJ): Departs 2:25 PM, arrives 6:45 PM (Tue, Thu, Sat)
- AF969 (PUJ to CDG): Departs 9:05 PM, arrives 10:30 AM next day
Boost to Dominican Republic Tourism
Air France’s new flight supports the Dominican Republic’s broader tourism goals. The country welcomed over 10 million tourists in 2023 and aims to exceed that in 2026. With a strong focus on attracting high-spending European travelers, direct connections from key hubs like Paris are vital.
Punta Cana International Airport is the busiest in the Dominican Republic, handling over 8 million passengers annually. This new link adds crucial capacity during the high-demand winter months.
Booking and Travel Info
Travelers can now book tickets on Air France’s official website or through affiliated travel agents. The airline recommends early booking to secure favorable fares and preferred seating, particularly during the competitive winter holiday season.
Conclusion: A Smart Seasonal Strategy
The launch of direct Paris to Punta Cana flights for Winter 2026 underlines Air France’s strategic push to capture leisure travel demand in the Caribbean. With high-quality service, convenient flight times, and increased accessibility to the Dominican Republic, the new route is poised to attract both seasoned tourists and first-time travelers seeking an escape from Europe’s winter chill.
As the travel industry continues its robust rebound, Air France’s targeted seasonal expansion in the Caribbean represents a forward-looking approach that supports both French outbound tourism and the Dominican Republic’s thriving inbound sector.
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